Arizona Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW): Gun Laws, Application, Requirements & Online Training

If you are considering buying a concealed firearm in Arizona, you are in luck! Arizona is known for its lenient gun laws, making it relatively straightforward to obtain a concealed carry permit. In this article, we will guide you through the essential information you need to know before applying for an Arizona concealed carry permit.

From understanding the state’s gun laws to the application process and reciprocity agreements, we have got you covered!

Arizona Gun Laws: Concealed Carry and Open Carry

Arizona is a shall-issue constitutional state, which means that if you meet the requirements, you have the right to obtain a concealed carry permit. The state’s gun laws cover both open carry and concealed carry.

• Age Limit: The minimum age for open carry is 18, while for concealed carry, it is 21.

Arizona Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) Reciprocity

Arizona has reciprocity agreements with many states, meaning that if you have a concealed carry permit from another state, it may be recognized in Arizona. However, certain conditions must be met:

1. Presence in Arizona: The person issued the CCW permit must be present in Arizona.
2. No Prohibitions: There should be no previous prohibition of the person owning a weapon legally in Arizona.
3. Age Requirement: The person must be 21 years old or older to obtain a concealed weapon.
4. No Criminal Record: The person must not be under any form of indictment or conviction.

States with CCW Reciprocity Agreements

Arizona has reciprocity agreements with approximately 37 states, which means these states accept the Arizona CCW permit. Conversely, Arizona accepts permits from 53 districts and states, but not from 13 states.

How to get a concealed carry in Arizona

Arizona is a constitutional carry state meaning residents can conceal carry without a permit. However, to carry concealed interstate, complete a state-approved firearms safety program, submit a concealed carry permit application to AZ DPS with fingerprints and ID, and pass a background check.

Who Can Own Arizona Concealed Carry Permits?

It’s important to distinguish between a concealed carry permit and an Arizona CCW permit. The Arizona Department of Public Safety allows people with permits from any state that has a reciprocity deal with Arizona to carry concealed weapons. However, this does not qualify as an Arizona concealed carry permit.

Requirements for an Arizona CCW Permit

To apply for an Arizona concealed carry permit, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Legal Residency: You must be legally living in America.
2. Training Completion: You must have completed training from an approved Arizona Concealed Carry class.
3. No Ongoing Legal Charges: You should not have any ongoing legal charges against you.
4. Mental Stability: You must be mentally stable and fit to carry a firearm.
5. Federal Law Compliance: You must comply with all other federal gun ownership laws.

Age Limit for Arizona CCW Application

The age limit for Arizona concealed carry is strictly 21 years old. Visitors to the state who are below the age of 18 are not permitted to handle firearms. However, there is an exception for discharged military personnel who are above 19 years old.

Places Off-Limits for Arizona Concealed Carry

While Arizona’s gun laws are lenient, there are strict restrictions on carrying firearms in certain places. Prohibited areas include:

1. Schools: Firearms are generally not allowed near school grounds, but there are exceptions, such as for individuals within the Arizona CCW age limit who are in a vehicle, or attending an event approved by the school management.
2. Bars: Carrying firearms while drinking alcohol in bars is not allowed.
3. Hydroelectric Stations: Only peacekeeping officers have the right to handle guns around nuclear plants and hydroelectric stations.
4. Other Restricted Areas: Military buildings, Indian reservations, public and national parks, prison facilities, government buildings, universities’ vicinity, and airports are also off-limits for concealed carry.

Discharging a Gun/Firearm in Arizona

Concealed carry in Arizona does not permit discharging a firearm in residential areas, with a few exceptions, such as shooting in supervised ranges or places approved by the Arizona Games department, or in cases of self-defense.

How to Apply for an Arizona Concealed Carry Permit

To apply for an Arizona concealed carry permit, follow these steps:

1. Meet Qualifications: Ensure you meet all qualifications listed by the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
2. Understand Arizona Laws: Familiarize yourself with Arizona’s laws related to concealed carry.
3. Complete Training: Complete an approved Arizona concealed carry class or training.
4. Submit Application: Email Arizona concealed weapon permit for the CCW application pack, then fill and submit the application form with the required fingerprints.
5. Pay Fee: Include the application fee and a certificate of training with your submission.
6. Wait for Approval: Wait for 75 days after applying to receive a response.

Arizona Concealed Carry Class: What to Expect

A good Arizona concealed carry class should cover essential topics such as self-defense law, gun safety, shooting skills, marksmanship, live-fire and dry-fire training, gun drawing, and attacking and defending shooting drills.

Cost of Arizona Online Class

Arizona CCW online classes typically range from $50 to $100.

Arizona CCW Permit Validity

An Arizona concealed carry permit is valid for five years, after which it must be renewed. The Department of Public Safety will check your criminal record before issuing a new permit.

Privacy Policy for Arizona CCW Permits

The application and permit information are not made public, but law enforcement agencies can access it for verification purposes with a court order.

Arizona DPS concealed weapons permit renewal

The Arizona Department of Public Safety handles the renewal of concealed carry permits before and within 90 days after expiration through a streamlined application requiring new fingerprints, a photograph, and a $43 renewal fee.

Conclusion

With its shall-issue constitutional state status, Arizona offers a straightforward process for obtaining a concealed carry permit. However, it’s crucial to understand the state’s gun laws and restrictions to ensure responsible and lawful ownership of firearms. Remember to undergo the required training and meet all qualifications before applying. Stay safe and informed, and exercise your rights responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the Arizona CCW permit valid?

The permit is valid for five years and requires renewal.

Is there a non-resident concealed carry permit in Arizona?

The process is the same for both residents and non-residents.

How can I apply for a change of name and address on a permit?

Submit a printed form with the updated details and pay the required fee.

What can I do if my permit is missing?

Contact the sheriff of your municipality if your permit is lost or stolen.

Is a concealed carry Arizona permit valid in another state?

The permit is valid in another state if you have updated your name and address change before moving.

How much is a CCW in Arizona:

Initial Arizona concealed weapon permit fees are $60 for the permit and $22 for fingerprinting. Renewal of the 5-year permit before expiration is $43 or $55 if renewing months after expiration since it lapses without renewal.

Why do I need a concealed carry permit in Arizona:

It is not required within Arizona, but having an AZ concealed weapons permit allows for concealed carry reciprocity across state lines. It also streamlines firearm purchases. Permit uniformly proves identity and qualification for concealed carry privileges.